Enter the total loan amount ($) and the construction cost ($) into the Loan to Cost Calculator. The calculator will evaluate and display the Loan to Cost. 

Loan to Cost Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the Loan to Cost. 

LTC = LA / CC 
  • Where LTC is the Loan to Cost ($/$)
  • LA is the total loan amount ($) 
  • CC is the construction cost ($) 

To calculate the loan to cost, divide the loan amount by the construction cost.

How to Calculate Loan to Cost?

The following example problems outline how to calculate Loan to Cost.

Example Problem #1:

  1. First, determine the total loan amount ($). The total loan amount ($) is given as 50,000.
  2. Next, determine the construction cost ($). The construction cost ($) is provided as 100,000.
  3. Finally, calculate the Loan to Cost using the equation above: 

LTC = LA / CC 

The values given above are inserted into the equation below:

LTC = 50000 / 100000  = .50 ($/$)


FAQ

What factors can affect the Loan to Cost (LTC) ratio?

The LTC ratio can be affected by various factors including changes in construction costs, adjustments in the loan amount due to revised project scopes or unexpected expenses, and variations in lender policies or market conditions that influence the maximum loan amounts lenders are willing to offer.

Why is the Loan to Cost ratio important in construction financing?

The Loan to Cost ratio is crucial in construction financing as it helps lenders assess the risk associated with funding a project. A lower LTC ratio indicates that the borrower has invested more of their own funds into the project, suggesting a lower risk for the lender. This ratio can influence the terms of the loan, including interest rates and approval decisions.

Can the Loan to Cost ratio change during the construction process?

Yes, the Loan to Cost ratio can change during the construction process if there are significant changes in the project’s budget or the loan amount. For example, if additional financing is needed due to unforeseen construction challenges, or if the construction costs decrease because of cost-saving measures, the LTC ratio will adjust accordingly. Lenders may periodically review the LTC ratio during the construction phase to ensure the project remains within their risk parameters.